Councillors call for Further Consultation on Bus Route Changes across Sheffield
Lib Dem Councillors have expressed concerns about an inadequate consultation of key bus services changes planned to come into force on the 1st of September, including the 95, 6, 82 and 51 buses. They have called for the public consultation period to be extended to the end of July to allow more time to share information about these bus changes with Sheffield residents and for them to give their feedback.
First South Yorkshire & Stagecoach has announced a series of proposals to reform their services, journeys and frequencies across Sheffield. These include the withdrawal of the 95/95a service which runs from Meadowhall to Walkley via the City Centre. This will be replaced by two new services, neither of which will connect directly to Meadowhall.
The consultation period has only been set for a 12-day period and is due to close on Tue 16th July. The First Bus website consultation provides limited detail on the proposed changes with no easy access to further information without contacting the operator directly.
Similarly, Travel South Yorkshire are seeking public feedback in an 11-day period for services such as the 6 service, which will no longer serve Greystones and Bents Green.
Lib Dem Councillors fear that many residents are unaware of the proposed changes as much of the information has been online on social media sites.
Barbara Masters, Councillor for Ecclesall ward, said:
“The number 6 service provides a high valued link to hospitals, university and bus station for those living in Greystones and Bents Green. It’s been very reliable and is now a well used service. Encouraging people to use it instead of their cars. It’s unclear why this service has been revised.”
Rebecca Atkinson, new Councillor for Dore and Totley, said:
“I am particularly concerned about the lack of information about the proposed new route of the 81/82 service. Residents don’t trust this consultation as there hasn’t been any real detail to comment on. We don’t want to see any new changes until there has been an adequate consultation for residents whose day-to-day routines will be shaped by this.”